A few weeks ago at our Confirmation Class we discussed part of the world mission of the United Church of Christ. At that session we discussed the Child Sponsorship program that encourages congregations and individuals to sponsor a child who has been orphaned or abandoned or has become a refugee because of war or floods or some other disaster. The youth agreed to help our church be a part of this program. Some of the children in the Child Sponsorship program live in orphanages; others go to school at church operated child service organizations or who live with their parents who are unable to provide for their health and education needs.

The cost to sponsor a child is $30 per month and all of the money goes directly to meet the child’s needs which may include school fees, books, health care, food and clothing. In return we will receive several progress reports per year from the specific child that is assigned to us. If the child is old enough to read and write we will receive letters from him or her. We are also encouraged to write to our child.

This Child Sponsorship program is operated as a joint missionary effort between the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and operates on a worldwide basis. The need is great and this program is one small effort that can make a big difference in the life of a child who has been dealt a very bad hand.

We are inviting the entire congregation to help support the child that we will soon hear about. On Sunday mornings we will have a large container which will say “A Little Change Can Change A Lot”. You are invited to drop in your spare change and watch the funds and support grow. Folding money and checks are also welcome! We can adopt additional children as our support makes possible! Thanks in advance for your careful and prayerful concern as we learn more about the needs of this outstanding Christian mission.